1951 New York Yankees World Champions Team-Signed Ball with DiMaggio and Mantle

Official American League (Harridge) ball signed in blue and black ink by the following twenty-six members of the 1951 World Champion New York Yankees: DiMaggio (grading "4"), Mantle ("6"), Rizzuto (sweet spot), Mize (sweet spot), Coleman, Reynolds, Jensen, Hogue, Raschi, Cerv, Wilson (on ball label), Sain, Brown, Houk, Brideweser, McDougald, Woodling, Martin (very faint, "1"), Bauer, Morgan, Ostrowski, Schallock, Kuzava, Lopat, Hopp, and Overmire. The signature of Jim McDonald, who was traded to the Yankees in November of 1951, also appears on this ball and was most likely added at a later date. The number "25" is written in black ink on a side panel. Outfielder Hank Bauer wore number "25" in 1951 and this ball most likely originates from his estate (players' uniform numbers were commonly written on balls, for inventory purposes, by clubhouse attendants when team balls were lined up for signing for fellow players, other members of the Yankees organization, and special dignitaries). Signatures range from "1" to "7," averaging "5." The year 1951 was a momentous one in Yankees history as the team bid fond farewell to the "Yankee Clipper," Joe DiMaggio, and welcomed his heir apparent, Mickey Mantle. The transition was certainly a smooth one, as the Yankees captured their third consecutive World Championship (en route to a record five consecutive titles) by defeating the Giants in the World Series. The ball appears to be coated with a very thin layer of protective shellac and the manufacturer's stampings are faint. In Very Good condition overall. 1951 New York Yankees team-signed ball are among the most desirable from the era, and the offered ball represents a solid mid-grade example dating from one of the most memorable years in New York Yankees history. LOA from James Spence/JSA. Reserve $300. Estimate $500/$1,000. SOLD FOR $1,645

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